Eye Pain: Medical History

The medical history (history of the patient) represents an important component in the diagnosis of ocular pain.

Family history

  • Are there any eye diseases in your family that are common?

Social history

  • What is your profession?

Current medical history/systemic history (somatic and psychological complaints).

  • How long has the pain been present? Have they changed in intensity? Have they become more severe?
  • Where exactly is the pain localized? Does the pain radiate?
  • Does the pain tend to occur when the eye is at rest or when the eye moves?
  • Does the pain affect both eyes?
  • Is the pain more stabbing, burning or dull?
  • Do you experience any other symptoms besides eye pain, such as burning or watery eyes?
  • Is there an acute visual disturbance?*
  • Has the pain occurred in conjunction with other changes or medication?
  • Have you had an infection recently? An injury to the eye?
  • Do you wear glasses or contact lenses?

Vegetative anamnesis incl. nutritional anamnesis

  • Do you suffer from sleep disorders?
  • Do you smoke? If yes, how many cigarettes, cigars or pipes per day?
  • Do you drink alcohol? If yes, what drink(s) and how many glasses per day?
  • Do you use drugs? If yes, what drugs and how often per day or per week?

Self history incl. medication history.

  • Pre-existing conditions (eye diseases, neurological diseases).
  • Operations
  • Allergies
  • Medication history

* If this question has been answered with “Yes”, an immediate visit to the doctor is required! (Information without guarantee)